A surge in holiday bookings is expected as people look to secure their 2026 getaways.
Barrhead Travel, one of the UK’s largest retail travel agencies, is predicting a spike in demand on January 10, the first Saturday of the month, which traditionally marks the busiest day of the year for holiday bookings as people begin planning their next escape.
Leigh-Ann Osoria, store manager at Barrhead Travel Dunfermline, said: "With 2025 in the rear-view mirror, many people have already started thinking about making their holiday dreams a reality.
"January remains one of the best times of year to book a holiday – and we expect this year to be no different.
"We’ve noticed that people have already been booking earlier than usual this year; at the close of 2025, bookings for summer 2026 were already up compared to the same period last year.
"There’s definitely an appetite for spreading the cost over monthly payments as well as people being keen to secure their first choice of accommodation or destination rather than leave to the last-minute."
Dubbed ‘Sunshine Saturday’, the first Saturday of January after people return to work typically sees a rush of bookings as families aim to secure deals for key school holiday periods, including summer, Easter, and October breaks.
Travellers are especially drawn to low deposits and 'kids go free' offers.
Ms Osoria said: "Ultimately, holidaymakers want value for money and to make sure their trips are fully financially protected which is why we continue to see a return to high street travel agents.
"We’re really excited for this weekend as we get ready to showcase the expertise of our people and help our customers map out their holidays for the year."
Barrhead Travel is anticipating high demand over the coming weekend after reporting three consecutive years of record sales.
Last year’s 'Sunshine Saturday' delivered the company’s most successful January on record.
The agency has observed growing momentum in summer holiday bookings since Christmas, with 2026 reservations already outpacing the same period last year.
According to Barrhead Travel, popular destinations among Scottish travellers for 2026 include Tenerife, Majorca, Canada, Dubai, and Gran Canaria.
Customers are favouring early bookings to secure preferred accommodation and spread the cost through monthly payment options.
To support the expected January surge, many Barrhead Travel stores will be open seven days until late.
The agency has also refreshed its brand with a new slogan, 'Travel that’s right up your street,' reflecting its commitment to bringing travel expertise to local high streets.
Customers looking to book their holidays in person can find their nearest Barrhead Travel branch at: www.barrheadtravel.co.uk/storelocator.
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